Segments for arranging on and for forming a disc brush

ABSTRACT

A segment for detachably arranging on a carrier, which can be rotatably mounted relative to an axis of rotation, for forming a disc brush or for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disc, includes a segment body, wherein multiple bristles protrude from the underside thereof or an abrasive grit and/or a fiber structure is arranged on the underside thereof, wherein the segment body has a segment guide extending in the radial direction in relation to the axis of rotation of the carrier on a radially internal edge and spaced apart from an external—in relation to a circumferential direction—lateral edge of the segment body, which segment guide is designed to cooperate with a corresponding carrier guide formed or arranged on the carrier for arranging the segment on the carrier.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a segment, in particular a brush, cleaning, grinding or polishing segment for arranging releasably on a rotatably mountable carrier of a plate, in particular in order to form a circular brush or a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk. In accordance with a further aspect, furthermore, the invention relates to a carrier for forming a circular brush, and to a correspondingly equipped circular brush which has a carrier of this type with a plurality of segments arranged thereon, for instance brush or polishing segments.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of what are known as circular brushes is well known for cleaning sealed surfaces. Common sweeping and cleaning machines or units have a head, that is to say a drive head, which is driven in a motorized manner and is correspondingly rotatable and on which a carrier for the circular brush is arranged fixedly for conjoint rotation. Common circular brushes have a disk-shaped plate body, on which a multiplicity of bristles is arranged which are typically arranged approximately axially in relation to the rotational axis of the plate body or inclined axially and radially to the outside at a predefined angle, with the free end facing away from the plate body.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,766,589 A has disclosed, for example, a circular brush with an upper and with a lower plate which are connected to one another by means of a plurality of bolts. Individual segment bodies which are fitted in each case with bristles can be arranged between the plates. Those bodies can be clamped in between the plates by way of tightening of the bolts. Although, in the case of a solution of this type, individual segments, fitted with bristles, of a circular brush can be replaced as required, the aid of tools which interact with the bolts is however required for the replacement of segments. Consequently, in some circumstances, the lower plate has to be removed and dismantled completely, which in practice is probably possible only in the case of a circular brush which has been dismantled completely from a sweeping or cleaning machine.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

In contrast, the present invention is based on the object of providing an improved plate for forming a circular brush or for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk and segments which are provided for this purpose which can be mounted on the plate as simply and intuitively as possible and, if required, can also be replaced individually and independently of one another. The mounting and/or dismantling of individual segments on and/or from a carrier of the circular brush is intended to take place as far as possible without tools, that is to say without the aid of fastening tools. The segments and the carrier which corresponds with them are intended to have a construction which is as simple and robust as possible. They are intended to be capable of being produced as simply and inexpensively as possible. In accordance with a further aspect, the segments are intended to have an improved environmental footprint. They are intended to be capable of being produced in a manner which conserves resources.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This object is achieved by way of a segment and by way of a carrier for forming a circular brush or for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk. Advantageous embodiments and additional features of the segment and the carrier are also provided.

The segment which is provided according to the invention is configured and provided for arranging releasably on a circular, typically disk-like carrier of a circular brush or a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk. The segment has a segment body. If the segment is configured as a brush segment for forming a circular brush, a plurality of bristles or bristle tufts protrude from its lower side. In the case of one alternative embodiment of the segment, for instance for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk or a corresponding disk, an abrasive grit and/or a fiber structure, for example in the form of a woven fabric or a nonwoven, are/is arranged on the lower side of the segment body.

The segment body has a segment guide which extends in the radial direction in a manner which, in relation to the rotational axis of the carrier, is adjacent to an inner edge which is radially on the inside and in a manner which is spaced apart from a side edge, lying on the outside in relation to a circumferential direction of the carrier, of the segment body. The segment guide is formed or configured in such a way as to interact with a carrier guide which is configured on the carrier or is arranged thereon in a manner which corresponds or is complementary to said segment guide, for arranging or fixing the segment on the carrier.

The carrier guide likewise extends in the radial direction, in relation to the rotational axis or in relation to a central region of the carrier. The segment guide and the carrier guide can be elongate guides which have a predefined extent in the radial direction. The segment guide or the carrier guide make an assembly direction of individual segments in the radial direction possible, typically from the radial outside to the radial inside. The segment guide or the carrier guide can be sliding guides which pass into engagement with one another mutually considerably before the final mounting position of the segments on the carrier is reached. In this way, particularly simple, reliable and intuitive mounting of individual segments on the carrier is made possible.

The segment guide and the carrier guide can have guide faces which correspond with one another, are rectilinear, slide along on one another, and are formed, for example, by substantially rectilinear or planar side edges and/or side cheeks, which correspond to one another, of the carrier guide and/or the segment guide. This makes particularly simple and low-friction sliding of the relevant guide faces of the segment guide and the carrier guide along on one another possible.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the segment guide of the segment is situated within the segment body in relation to the axial direction. In relation to the later axial direction of the segment in its arrangement on the carrier, the segment guide is situated between an upper side which faces the carrier and a lower side of the segment body which faces away from the carrier. This makes a particularly simple, inexpensive and efficient production of the segment bodies possible. In addition, the segment bodies can be configured such that they are free from guide elements or guide structures which project to the outside from the segment body or protrude therefrom, as a result of which the robustness and durability of the segment bodies can be increased, in particular, during long-term operation.

The side edges of the segment bodies typically run in the radial direction. A plurality of segment bodies which are arranged on the carrier typically form an annular or circular disk-like contour. To this extent, the individual segment bodies can be configured in the manner of a circular or annular segment. On account of the side edges which run in the radial direction, side edges of a segment which lie opposite one another taper approximately conically toward one another in the direction of the radial center, radially inwardly directed imaginary extensions of side edges of the segment bodies which lie opposite one another intersecting on or at the rotational axis of the carrier. This geometry requires that segment bodies which adjoin one another in the circumferential direction come into the contact position with their mutually facing side edges only when they reach their final mounting position on the carrier.

By virtue of the fact that the segment guide adjoins that inner edge of the segment body which lies radially on the inside, an earliest possible radial guidance of individual segment bodies on the carrier can take place during a mounting movement which is directed radially from the outside toward the inside. This simplifies the mounting. Furthermore, the segment guide which adjoins the inner edge of the segment body is also advantageous in terms of production. The segment body can be milled, cut or punched, for example, from a blank, in order to form a corresponding segment guide.

By virtue of the fact that the segment guide is configured or arranged on the segment body spaced apart from an outer side edge of the segment body, it can be achieved, furthermore, that the segment body requires merely a single segment guide which interacts with a correspondingly configured carrier guide, in order to guide the segment body radially, axially and/or tangentially on the carrier and/or to fix it thereon. This makes a reduction of the number of segment guides per segment body to a minimum possible, as a result of which the complexity of the segment body but also the complexity of the carrier guide and therefore the complexity of the carrier can be reduced in an advantageous way. Thus, for example, only a single carrier guide can be provided on the carrier for in each case one segment, which single carrier guide can interact with a single segment guide per segment for fixing or arranging of the segment on the carrier.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the segment, the segment guide is situated at a predefined spacing from those side edges of the segment body which lie on the outside in the circumferential direction. The segment guide is situated between side edges of the segment body which lie opposite one another. The segment guide can be situated approximately centrally between the side edges. Furthermore, the segment guide can extend parallel to an imaginary center line or axis of symmetry of the segment body which runs in the radial direction and centrally between the side edges. A segment guide which is central or is situated between side edges which lie opposite one another makes a particularly simple and uncomplicated interaction of the segment guide with a carrier guide of corresponding or complementary configuration thereto on the carrier possible, in particular if only a single segment guide is provided on the segment. The central arrangement or configuration of the segment guide on the segment body makes, in particular, tilt-free or cant-free mounting of the relevant segment on the carrier possible.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the segment, one of the segment guide and the carrier guide has an extension which extends in the radial direction and can be inserted into a radially extending receptacle of corresponding configuration of the respective other one of the segment guide and the carrier guide. If, for example, the segment guide is configured with an extension which extends in the radial direction, the carrier guide has a radially extending receptacle which corresponds thereto or is of complementary configuration and into which the extension of the segment guide can be inserted.

In the case of other embodiments, in the case of which the segment guide has a receptacle which extends in the radial direction, the carrier guide which is of complementary or corresponding configuration thereto has an extension which extends in the radial direction and can be inserted into the receptacle. Here, the segment or the segment body can be pushed with its receptacle which adjoins the radial inner edge onto a radially outwardly extending extension which is typically provided on the lower side of the carrier.

If the segment guide is provided with a receptacle, it typically extends radially inward from the inner edge of the segment body. Here, that extension of the carrier guide which is provided on the carrier typically extends radially outward. In the case of embodiments, in the case of which the segment guide is provided with an extension, the extension typically extends radially inward from the inner edge of the segment body. It projects, as it were, radially inward from the inner edge of the segment body. Here, the carrier guide typically has a radially inwardly extending receptacle.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the receptacle of the segment guide or carrier guide is delimited in the circumferential direction by two side cheeks which lie opposite one another. The side cheeks are typically of corresponding configuration to side cheeks of the extension of the respective other one of the segment guide and the carrier guide. The spacing of the side cheeks in the circumferential direction of the receptacle typically corresponds to the spacing of side cheeks of the relevant extension which correspond thereto.

The spacing of the side cheeks of the extension is typically slightly smaller, as viewed in the circumferential direction, than the clear spacing of the side cheeks of the respective receptacle, with the result that the relevant extension can be inserted in a cant-free and tilt-free manner into the receptacle. The receptacle and the extension can have a substantially rectangular contour in relation to the plane of the segment body or the carrier. Opposite side cheeks of the extension and/or receptacles can extend approximately parallel to one another. The side cheeks can also extend, in particular, parallel to an imaginary center line, running in the radial direction, of the segment or to an imaginary radially running line of the carrier which intersects the rotational axis.

Other contours of the extension and receptacle are also conceivable, however. For example, the receptacle can be configured so as to point away from its receiving edge in the radial direction and to taper, for example to taper acutely or conically, in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the extension can also have a conically or acutely tapering free end which can be inserted into a receptacle which is of corresponding or complementary configuration thereto.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the receptacle has a radial end wall. In other words, the receptacle is delimited in the radial direction by an end wall. The extension of complementary configuration thereto is typically also provided with an end side which passes into contact with the end wall when a final mounting position of the segment on the carrier is reached. The mutual contact of the end wall and the end side delimits the radially inwardly directed mounting movement of the segment on the carrier. Via the mutual contact position of the end wall and the end side, the segment or the segment body is supported radially inward on the carrier. The end walls of the receptacle and the extension can bear directly against one another in the final mounting position of the relevant segment on the carrier and, in this regard, form mutual end stops for a defined final mounting position of the segments on the carrier.

This is advantageous in so far as the outer edge of the segment can project slightly from the carrier in the mounting position on the carrier and, as a result, can form an outer and downwardly pointing edge of a circular brush or a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk. The abovementioned radial support is advantageous, in particular, if the outer edge of the segment should collide, for example, with objects, for example a curb or a wall. As a result, the carrier which is typically configured from metal can be kept free of damage. Any damage as a consequence of collisions with objects is accepted for the replaceable segment which is configured as a wear part. The reusable carrier which can typically be arranged on a cleaning or sweeping machine is in contrast protected against corresponding damage.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the end wall has a mechanical encoding means which is of corresponding configuration with respect to a counter-encoding means which is configured on the extension. The counter-encoding means is typically situated on the end side of the extension. The encoding means can have one or more radial extensions or radial depressions. For example, the mechanical encoding means can have an acutely tapering projection which can engage into a receptacle or depression of the counter-encoding means, which receptacle or depression is of corresponding or complementary configuration thereto and tapers in the radial direction.

Encoding means and counter-encoding means which are complementary or correspond with one another in the region of the end wall or in the region of the end side make it possible that the segment bodies which are provided for a certain carrier are equipped, for example, with an encoding means which corresponds to the carrier-side counter-encoding means. Non-matching segment bodies which are equipped with an encoding means which does not match the counter-encoding means which is provided on the carrier therefore cannot be arranged on the carrier. In this way, it can be avoided that segment bodies which are not provided for a certain carrier are used with a carrier of this type, but rather that exclusively segments or segment bodies can be arranged on a carrier of the type which is designed for segments or segment bodies of this type.

Via the encoding means and counter-encoding means, in particular, a type of positively locking connection of the receptacle and the extension, and consequently between the segment and the carrier, can be formed in relation to the circumferential direction of the carrier. If the receptacle and the extension are afflicted with a certain amount of mechanical play or if the extension is smaller, as viewed in the circumferential direction, by a predefined gap size than the clear span of the receptacle of corresponding configuration thereto, certain play-afflicted mounting of the segment bodies on the carrier can be provided. When the final mounting configuration is reached and when the encoding means engages into the counter-encoding means, any possible tilting of the segment relative to the carrier due to provided gap sizes between the receptacle and the extension can be compensated for or largely eliminated or prevented.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the segment, the receptacle has, as viewed in the axial direction, a cover section which protrudes as far as the inner edge on at least one of the upper side or the lower side of the segment body. In this respect, the receptacle can be of closed configuration toward the upper side or toward the lower side of the segment body. The receptacle can also be configured, for example, as a blind bore, slot or groove on the inner edge of the segment body. It is provided in the case of some embodiments that the receptacle is of open configuration toward the lower side of the segment body and toward the inner edge of the segment body, but that the receptacle is closed by way of the cover section toward the upper side of the segment body.

The cover section extends between the side cheeks of the receptacle which lie opposite one another. It connects, as it were, the side cheeks of the receptacle which lie opposite one another. As a result, a cutout which is accessible from the lower side of the segment is provided, which cutout can be pushed, for example, onto the extension which corresponds to it. This feature proves to be advantageous, in particular, when a radially outwardly protruding extension is arranged or configured on the lower side of the carrier, which extension is arranged or configured thereon with retention of an axial gap which is accessible radially from the outside. Here, the axial gap width corresponds to at least the axial thickness of the cover section. To this extent, the receptacle can be introduced with its cover section from the radial outside to the radial inside into the intermediate space or into the gap between the extension and the lower side of the carrier or a carrier disk. In this way, axial securing of the segment on the carrier can already be achieved by way of plugging of the receptacle onto the extension.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the segment or the segment body is provided with a smooth upper side which is configured such that it is substantially free from projections. This makes particularly simple guidance of the segment body along the lower side of a carrier disk of the carrier possible. To this extent, the upper side of the segment body can act as a sliding face which a carrier disk of substantially planar configuration can slide along on the lower side until the final mounting position on the carrier is reached. As a result, the mounting of the segment on the carrier is simplified further.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the receptacle extends continuously from an upper side to the lower side of the segment body. In the case of an embodiment of this type, at least fixing of the segment body or the segment on the carrier, in relation to the circumferential direction, can be achieved by way of the mutual engagement of the receptacle and the extension. Further fastening means are provided for axially fixing the segment body or the segment on the carrier. A receptacle which extends continuously from an upper side to the lower side of the segment body can be realized particularly simply in terms of manufacturing technology. This makes the configuration of the segment body as a stamped part possible, for example.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the segment, the inner wall which lies radially on the inside has a further mechanical encoding means which is configured to interact with a further counter-encoding means, of corresponding configuration with respect to the former, of the carrier. The further mechanical encoding means can be configured instead of the abovementioned mechanical encoding means on the inner edge of the segment body. Here, the end wall of the receptacle can be configured such that it is free from an encoding means, which can prove to be particularly simple in terms of manufacturing technology, in particular, in the case of a configuration of the receptacle as a groove. The segment body can also, however, be provided twice, namely with a first encoding means in the region of the end wall and with a second encoding means in the region of the inner edge. Here, the double mechanical encoding means can provide a type of double or multiple positively locking connection at least in the circumferential direction, with the result that a particularly satisfactory tilt-free and play-free final mounting position of the segment on the carrier can be achieved.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the segment, the segment body has a securing element which is configured to form a radial fixing means of the segment on the carrier in a manner which corresponds to a counter-securing element which can be arranged on the carrier or is configured thereon. The securing element of the segment is arranged on an upper side of the segment body or is accessible from the upper side of the segment body. The counter-securing element can also be arranged or configured on the upper side of the carrier and accordingly of course can also be accessible from above. This makes particularly simple, possibly tool-free fixing and mounting of the segment on the carrier possible.

The securing element can be, for example, a hook which protrudes radially outward with its free end and can be introduced from the radial outside toward the radial inside into a correspondingly slotted region which adjoins the outer edge of a carrier disk of the carrier. The counter-securing element on the part of the carrier can be configured, for example, as a clamping closure, as a toggle lever closure or as a securing bracket which can be actuated without tools, and which can be connected releasably in a positively locking manner to the hook which is configured on the segment body or is arranged thereon.

The configuration or arrangement of the securing element on the upper side of the segment body proves to be advantageous with regard to mounting. In order to replace a segment on the carrier, the carrier no longer necessarily has to be dismantled from a sweeping or cleaning machine. The accessibility to the securing element or counter-securing element from the upper side of the carrier proves to be particularly advantageous under the aspect of operating comfort.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the securing element is recessed, embedded or integrated into the segment body. The securing element can be embedded or recessed or integrated into the upper side of the segment body in a flush-mounted manner. The securing element can be, for example, a drive-in nut, a weld nut, or an internal thread of a bore in the segment body, which bore is accessible from the top. Depending on the material selection for the segment body, different securing elements are used here as needed.

If, for example, the segment body is configured as a plastic body, the securing element can be screwed, welded or fastened in some other way to the segment body, for example in the form of a metal hook. Otherwise, the securing element can also be configured, for example, as a drive-in nut or as a weld nut which is recessed or driven in and anchored in a positively locking or integrally joined manner into the plastic body of the segment. A screw opening, screw hole and/or a screw which is arranged on the carrier can act, for example, as counter-securing element on the carrier.

For radially fixing the segment body, for example, a bore which is provided with a thread on the upper side of the segment body can pass into contact in an aligned manner with a through opening on the carrier, with the result that a screw or a securing element of the like can be screwed in or screwed fixedly from above for axially and radially fixing the segment body or the segment on the carrier.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the segment body is a plastic body or metal body which is milled or cut or punched from a blank. Plastic or metal bodies of this type can be produced particularly simply and efficiently. Production and manufacturing costs for segments of this type can be reduced in this way.

All of the features which have been described above with regard to the extension as belonging to the segment guide and therefore the segment apply to embodiments, in the case of which the segment guide has an extension which extends in the radial direction. In a complementary manner with respect to this, all of the features which relate to the receptacle and have been described above apply as belonging to the carrier guide and therefore the carrier.

All the features and advantages which have been described above with regard to the extension as belonging to the carrier apply in the case of other embodiments, in the case of which the extension is configured or arranged on the carrier. Analogously and in a manner which corresponds to this, all of the features and properties which have been described above and are described with regard to the receptacle apply as belonging to the segment guide and, as a consequence, to the segment or segment body.

In accordance with a further aspect, furthermore, the present invention relates to a carrier for forming a circular brush or for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk. The carrier has a carrier disk which can be driven rotatably with regard to a rotational axis on a sweeping or cleaning machine. On a lower side of the carrier disk which faces the underlying surface to be cleaned in the case of being mounted on the relevant machine, a plurality of carrier guides which extend in each case in the radial direction for in each case one above-described segment are arranged or configured thereon.

The elongate carrier guides are configured to interact with the segment guide, of corresponding configuration thereto, of each segment for arranging and/or fixing the segment on the carrier. The carrier guides which are configured on the carrier are of corresponding or complementary configuration and design with respect to a segment guide of the above-described segments. In this respect, all the features, properties and shaped parts mentioned in relation to the segments and their arranging on the carrier also apply to the carrier and the carrier guides.

The carrier guides of the carrier and the associated segment guides can interact with one another in the manner of a plug/socket principle which, in particular, makes mounting of individual segment bodies from the radial inside to the radial outside on the carrier or on the carrier disk possible.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the carrier, the carrier guides in each case have a radially outwardly protruding projection which can be inserted into a receptacle, corresponding to it, of the respective segment, which projection is arranged on the lower side of the carrier or on the lower side of the carrier disk with the formation of a radially accessible axial gap. The gap typically extends between the lower side of the carrier disk and an upper side of the projection.

The gap width in the axial direction is typically selected in such a way that a cover section which delimits the receptacle of the segment in the axial direction can be introduced into the intermediate space. In this way, fixing of the segment on the carrier with regard to the circumferential direction and the axial direction can already take place by way of the mutual engagement of the receptacle and the extension or the carrier guide and the segment guide. A separate securing element is provided on the segment side merely for the radial securing and fixing of the segment on the carrier, which separate securing element interacts with a counter-securing element which is arranged on the carrier or is configured thereon.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the carrier, a plurality of counter-securing elements is arranged or configured on an upper side of the carrier or on the upper side of the carrier disk, which counter-securing elements, for radially and/or axially fixing the respective segment, can be brought releasably into engagement with a securing element which is provided on the relevant segment.

The counter-securing element can be the abovementioned clamping or toggle lever closure. To this extent, the carrier disk can have a plurality of cutouts or through openings, through which in each case at least one securing element of the segment can be guided and accordingly can interact together with the counter-securing element which is provided on the upper side of the carrier disk, for radial and possibly also axial fixing of the segment on the carrier. The counter-securing element can also be, instead of a clamping closure, merely, for example, a through opening or a screw hole which comes to lie in alignment with a threaded bore or with a thread of the segment in the case of correct mounting of the segment on the lower side of the carrier disk, with the result that a screw can be screwed in from above for radial and/or axial fixing of the segment on the carrier.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the counter-securing element has a securing bracket which is mounted pivotably on the upper side of the carrier and can be brought releasably into engagement with the securing element, which is arranged on the segment, typically on its upper side. The securing bracket can be mounted on the carrier such that it can be pivoted, in particular, with regard to a pivot axis between a release position and a securing position. The pivot axis can extend, for example, in the tangential direction, in relation to the radial symmetry of the carrier.

The counter-securing element is advantageously arranged on the radially inner edge of a cutout which penetrates the carrier. Therefore, the securing element which protrudes axially or upward from the upper side of the segment body can project through the cutout from the upper side of the carrier and can be brought into engagement there with the counter-securing element.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the counter-securing element, in particular its securing bracket, can be manufactured from an elastic material or can comprise at least one elastic material. The counter-securing element which can be deformed elastically to this extent can typically be brought into engagement with the securing element of the segment only or in a clamping manner by means of a mechanical prestress brought about by way of elastic deformation and/or with the formation of a press fit.

In this way, particularly reliable, durable and rattle-free mounting of the segment on the carrier is possible. By it being possible for the counter-securing element to be brought into engagement with the securing element exclusively as a consequence of an elastic deformation, it can exert a holding force on the segment by way of its inherent elastic restoring forces, as soon as it passes into engagement with the securing element and can fix this segment on the carrier in the long term.

In relation to the geometry of the carrier, the counter-securing element can be deformed elastically in the radial direction in its securing position. It can be deformed elastically, in particular, when it is directed radially outward and, as soon as it passes into engagement with the securing element of the segment, can exert a radially inwardly directed holding force on the securing element and the segment which is connected to it on account of its elastic restoring action.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the securing element which is arranged on the upper side of the segment body has a securing section which protrudes in the axial direction, that is to say upwardly or axially approximately parallel to a surface perpendicular of the segment body. On its outer side which faces away from the upper side of the segment body, this securing section has a cutout for the counter-securing element. The counter-securing element can be configured, for example, as a securing bracket and can be mounted such that it can be pivoted with regard to a pivot axis on the carrier of the sweeping or cleaning apparatus. The securing bracket can have, in particular, an elongate shank, the cross-sectional geometry of which is of corresponding or complementary configuration with respect to an inner contour of the cutout of the securing section of the securing element.

Furthermore, the securing section can extend radially to the outside with its end which protrudes from the upper side. To this extent, the securing section forms an undercut which is accessible from the radial outside for the counter-securing element.

Furthermore, the shank of the counter-securing element can have a counter-securing section which is widened in comparison with the shank and, in the securing position, comes to lie in an approximately clamping manner on a cheek or side of the securing element which lies radially on the outside in relation to the geometry of the carrier or the carrier disk.

In accordance with a further embodiment, it is provided, in particular, that the counter-securing element which is manufactured for instance from an elastic material or comprises an elastic material can be brought into engagement with the securing element of the segment in a clamping manner or with the formation of a press fit when its securing position is reached.

The cutout of the securing section of the securing element can have an inner contour which is slightly smaller than a region or section of the counter-securing element which is to be positioned therein. To this extent, the counter-securing element can be held in a clamping manner in the cutout of the securing element. Furthermore, the cutout can have a circular segment-like inner contour which extends over more than 180° in the circumferential direction. To this extent, the counter-securing element can be held or fixed in the cutout of the securing element in a clipped and therefore positively locking manner.

In addition or as an alternative to this, the counter-securing element which is of elastic configuration at least in regions can be brought into engagement with the securing element under a prestress which is directed in the radial direction. The segment guide and carrier guide of the segment and the carrier of the circular brush can form a radially inner end stop for the respective segment, by means of which end stop a radially inwardly directed mounting movement or positioning of the segment on the carrier is limited. That end stop can define the final mounting position of the segment on the carrier.

The securing element of the segment and the counter-securing element which interacts with it on the part of the carrier can be positioned and/or oriented with respect to one another in relation to the final mounting position of the segment on the carrier in such a way that the counter-securing section which can be brought into contact with that cheek or side of the securing section of the fastening element which points radially outward can be brought into engagement with the cutout of the securing element only or exclusively as a consequence of a predefined elastic expansion or dilatation of the securing bracket.

It is provided here, in particular, that the securing bracket can be brought into engagement with the securing section of the securing element, in particular with its cutout, only as a consequence of a radial elastic expansion or stretching in relation to its pivot axis. When a corresponding mutual securing position is reached, in which the counter-securing section which is widened in comparison with the shank of the securing bracket bears against the radially outwardly directed side or cheek of the securing section of the securing element, the shank can exert a radially inwardly directed holding force on the securing element and therefore on the segment which is mounted on the carrier on account of its elastic prestress or deformation.

At a longitudinal end which faces away from the pivot axis, the securing bracket can have a head section which is widened in comparison with the shank. The head section can form an approximately T-shaped end of the shank. A head section which is configured in this way makes particularly simple, reliable and intuitive gripping and/or pivoting of the securing bracket possible. The operation and handling of the counter-securing element is therefore simplified.

In accordance with a further aspect the present invention relates, furthermore, to a cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing segment for arranging on a carrier in order to form a circular brush or in order to form a cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing disk. The cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing segment has a segment body of substantially planar configuration. The segment body has a lower side and an upper side which lies opposite it. Here, the segment body can be configured for arranging on a lower side of an above-described carrier or an above-described carrier plate. On its lower side, the segment body has either a plurality of bristles, an abrasive grit or a fiber structure, in order to act accordingly as a sweeping, grinding or polishing segment for the formation of a corresponding cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing disk. The segment body can but does not necessarily have to have a segment guide which is of corresponding configuration to a carrier guide which is configured on the carrier.

A securing element is arranged or configured on the upper side of the segment body. In relation to the later arrangement on the carrier which is to be mounted rotatably with regard to an axis, the securing element projects in the axial direction from the upper side of the segment body. In particular, the securing element extends along a surface perpendicular of the upper side of the segment body.

In the case of this aspect, it is conceivable and provided, in particular, that, on the part of the carrier, typically on its lower side, a guide or receptacle for the segment body is provided or configured, which guide or receptacle can be brought into engagement with the opposite side edges of the segment body, or by means of which guide or receptacle the opposite side edges of the segment body can be held in a final mounting position with regard to the axial direction on the carrier. A carrier guide which is configured on the carrier can provide L-shaped guide rails which run in the radial direction, for example, for each segment, between which guide rails a segment body of substantially planar configuration can be introduced in the radial direction.

The securing element is typically situated spaced apart from the outer edge of the segment body which lies radially on the outside. It is preferably also situated tangentially or spaced apart in the circumferential direction with respect to the side edges of the segment body which are lateral or lie on the outside in the circumferential direction.

In relation to the provided arranging on the carrier, which is to be mounted, with regard to a rotational axis, the securing element has an undercut, or it forms an undercut which is accessible radially from the outside and into which an above-described central locking member can be introduced. The undercut of the securing element has a radially outwardly directed opening, with the result that the central locking member can be introduced from the radial outside to the radial inside into the securing element, in order for it therefore to be possible for a radially inwardly directed holding or fixing force to be exerted on the securing element and the segment body which is connected to it.

The cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing segment is provided, in particular, for an above-described central locking system and for an above-described carrier or for an above-described cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing apparatus. To this extent, all of the features, advantages and possible uses shown with respect to the above-described subjects also apply likewise to the cleaning, sweeping, grinding or polishing segment, and vice versa.

In accordance with a further aspect, finally, a circular brush or a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk is provided for arranging on a cleaning, sweeping or polishing machine which has an above-described carrier and at least one segment which is arranged thereon.

Instead of a brush segment which is fitted with bristles, furthermore, it is also conceivable that no bristles, but rather merely a cleaning structure which passes into a contact position with a surface to be cleaned, for example in the form of a woven fabric, a knitted fabric or a grinding grit, is arranged on the lower side of the segment body. The arranging of bristles which protrude from the lower side of the segment body is merely exemplary, and the segment body can fundamentally also be configured as a segment of a grinding or polishing segment, the segment body having a grinding, polishing or abrasive surface on its lower side.

The circular brush can fundamentally be used both for use in street and sidewalk cleaning, and a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk can preferably be used for the areas of interior cleaning.

Furthermore, it is to be noted that all the features and advantages which are described in relation to a segment, for instance a brush segment, also apply in the same or an analogous way to the carrier of the circular brush and to the circular brush, and vice versa.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

Further features, aims and advantages of the present invention will be explained in the following description of exemplary embodiments on the basis of the accompanying drawing figures.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective illustration of a circular brush which is fitted with a plurality of brush segments.

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of an embodiment of a segment body, as viewed from below.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective illustration of the segment body according to FIG. 2

FIG. 4 shows an exploded illustration of the circular brush according to FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows a cross section through the circular brush.

FIG. 6 shows an enlarged detail of the cross section according to FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 shows a plan view of the holder which is arranged on the lower side of the carrier.

FIG. 8 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of a segment, as viewed from below.

FIG. 9 shows a further exemplary embodiment for releasable arranging of a plurality of segments on a carrier,

FIG. 10 shows a plan view of one of the segments which are shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective illustration of the segment according to FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a further perspective illustration of a further segment.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective illustration of a further embodiment of a segment.

FIG. 14 shows an exploded illustration of a further embodiment of segments for releasable arranging on a carrier.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective illustration of the arrangement according to FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 shows an isolated perspective illustration of a segment according to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective illustration of a further embodiment of a segment.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective illustration of a plurality of segments according to FIG. 17 in a final mounting position on a carrier with counter-securing elements which are situated in a release position.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective illustration of the arrangement according to FIG. 18, but with counter-securing elements which are situated in a securing position.

FIG. 20 shows an enlarged illustration of a part region of FIG. 19.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

FIGS. 1 and 3 show a sweeping or cleaning apparatus 10 which can be mounted rotatably with regard to a rotational axis 1 on a sweeping or cleaning machine. The sweeping or cleaning apparatus can be, for example, a circular brush. The sweeping or cleaning apparatus 10 has a disk-like, possibly circular carrier 12 with a carrier disk 14, on the lower side 15 of which a plurality of brush, cleaning, grinding or polishing segments 40 are provided and are arranged releasably, in particular replaceably. In the exemplary embodiment, which is shown, a plurality of bristles 6 protrude downward from a lower side 41 of the respective segments 40 approximately in the direction of a rotational axis 1 of the sweeping or cleaning apparatus 10.

One example of a segment 40 which is configured, for example, as a brush segment is shown in detail in FIGS. 2 and 3, for example. A plurality of fastening points 50 which are configured, for example, as blind bores are provided on the lower side 41 of the segment 40, in or to which fastening points 50 in each case individual bristles or a plurality of bristles 6 can be fastened in a manner known per se. Instead of brush segments 40 which are equipped with bristles 6 of bristle tufts, the sweeping or cleaning apparatus 10 can also likewise be configured with cleaning segments (not shown in the present case), on the lower side of which, which faces a surface to be machined or to be cleaned, a grinding or cleaning pad is arranged or configured instead of bristles. The circular brush would then not be configured as a brush, but rather as a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk.

The individual segments 40 which can be arranged on the carrier 12 and are of largely identical configuration have in each case one segment body 42 which is of pie wedge-like configuration or, with regard to its opposite side edges 43, 45 as shown in FIG. 4, for example, is of wedge-shaped configuration. FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 show merely one of many conceivable geometrical embodiments of a segment body 42. A plurality of segment bodies 42 which are arranged on the lower side of the carrier 12 so as to adjoin one another in the circumferential direction u advantageously complete one another to form a full circle or to form a circular ring, as is shown in FIG. 4, for example. Here, a total of eight segment bodies 42 which adjoin one another directly in the circumferential direction u form a closed circumferential ring, each of the segment bodies 42 being releasably arranged separately on the lower side 15 of the carrier 12. The carrier 12 has, for example, a circular or annular, largely planar carrier disk 14.

A plurality of what are known as carrier guides 30 are arranged or configured on the lower side 15 of the carrier 12, which carrier guides 30 extend in the radial direction in relation to the rotational axis 1. In a complementary manner with respect to the carrier guides 37 which are shown, for example, in FIG. 7 and FIG. 4, each of the segments 40 has a segment guide 47 which extends in the radial direction in relation to the rotational axis 1 of the carrier 12 and so as to adjoin an inner edge 14 which lies radially on the inside. The segment guide 47 is typically situated spaced apart from an outer (in relation to the circumferential direction u) side edge 43, 44 of the respective segment body 42. The segment guide 47 is configured to interact with the carrier guide 37 which is provided on the carrier for arranging the segment 40 on the carrier 12. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 7, the segment guide 47 in each case has a receptacle 48 which extends in the radial direction r and is of complementary configuration with respect to a correspondingly radially oriented or radially extending extension 38 of the carrier guide 37. In other words, each segment 40 can be plugged with its radially inwardly directed introduction opening of the receptacle 48 onto an extension 38 of the carrier guide 37, which extension 38 protrudes radially to the outside with its free end.

In the case of the mounting direction from the radial outside to the radial inside of the individual segments 40, the segment guide which adjoins the inner edge 44 enables an earliest possible interaction with the segment guide 47, with the result that the introduction or the radially inwardly directed mounting can take place particularly simply.

As shown, in particular, in FIGS. 2 and 3, the receptacle 48 has two side cheeks 53, 55 which lie opposite one another. In the example, which is shown, the side cheeks 53, 55 extend substantially parallel to one another. Furthermore, they extend parallel to an imaginary center or symmetry line of the segment body 42, which line runs in the radial direction. In a complimentary manner with respect thereto, the carrier guide 37 therefore has side cheeks 33, 35 which correspond to its radially outwardly protruding extension 38 and, during the mounting of the segment or the segment body 42 on the carrier 12, slide along on the side cheeks 53, 55 which are of complementary or corresponding configuration with respect thereto.

In this way, the side cheeks 33, 35, 53, 55 which are of complementary configuration with respect to one another can act as a sliding or guide faces in the case of the mounting of the segment 40 on the carrier 12. In a manner which adjoins the inner edge 44 which lies radially on the inside, the side cheeks 53, 55 have insertion bevels 54 which widen in the circumferential direction toward the receiving edge and act as a centering aid and as an insertion aid for the extension 38.

The receptacle 48 is delimited in the radial direction by an end wall 56. The extension 38 also has an end side 36 which comes into contact with the end wall 56 when the final mounting position of the segment 40 on the carrier 12 is reached. The mutual contact position of the end wall 56 and the end side 36 limits a mounting movement of the segment 40 on the carrier 12. In addition, the segment 40 can be supported on the carrier 12 in the radial direction r via the mutual contact position of the end wall 56 and the end side 36. The width of the extension 38 in the circumferential direction u can correspond substantially to the clear span between the side cheeks 53, 55. It can also be somewhat smaller, however, in order to make particularly simple, cant-free mounting of the segment 40 on the carrier 12 possible, in particular.

As shown, in particular, in FIGS. 2 and 3, the end wall 56 can have an encoding means 57 which is provided, for example, with a radial projection 58. In a complementary or corresponding manner with respect to this, the end side 36 can also have a counter-encoding means 39 which passes into engagement in a positively locking manner with the mechanical encoding means 57 when the final mounting configuration is reached. Therefore, the counter-encoding means 39 can have a cutout or groove which corresponds to the shape of the extension or the projection 58. When the final mounting configuration is reached, further fixing with an accurate fit of the segment 40 on the carrier 12 can be achieved by way of the mutual engagement of the encoding means 57 and the counter-encoding means 39.

In the exemplary embodiment, which is shown, the mechanical encoding means has an acutely tapering projection 58 which can be introduced into the cutout of the counter-encoding means 39, which cutout is complimentary with respect thereto and correspondingly tapers. In this way, a type of centering action in relation to the circumferential direction u can take place as soon as the segment body 42 reaches its final mounting position on the carrier 12.

The exemplary embodiment which is shown of the encoding means 57 and the counter-encoding means 39 is merely exemplary. For instance, the mechanical encoding means 57 can also have a radial cutout into which a radial extension, of corresponding configuration with respect thereto, of the mechanical counter-encoding means 39 of the segment guide 37 engages.

As is shown, furthermore, in FIGS. 2 and 3, the receptacle 48 is delimited in the axial direction z, that is to say in the direction parallel to the rotational axis 1, by a cover section 59 which protrudes as far as the inner edge 44 of the segment body 42. The cover section 59 closes the receptacle 48 toward the top, toward the upper side 49 of the segment body 42. The cover section 59 can be part of the upper side 49 of the segment body 42. The cover section 59 typically extends between the side cheeks 53, 55 of the receptacle 48 which lie opposite one another. It closes the receptacle 48 toward the top in the axial direction. The receptacle 48 is open toward the bottom. That is to say, the side cheeks 53, 55 are not delimited toward the bottom in the axial direction, but rather merge directly into the lower side 41 of the segment body 42 which is otherwise of substantially planar configuration. The side cheeks 53, 55 are delimited toward the top and in the opposite axial direction by the cover section 59.

As is apparent, in particular, from FIGS. 4 to 7, a disk-like intermediate piece 20 is arranged first of all on the lower side of the carrier disk 14. A further mechanical encoding means 22, for instance in the form of a wave pattern, is configured on the outer edge on the intermediate piece 20 which has a much smaller radius than the carrier disk 14. Finally, a holder 30 is arranged on the intermediate piece 20, and therefore on that lower side of the intermediate piece 20 which faces away from the carrier disk 14, on which holder 30 the carrier guides 37 are configured. The holder 30 can likewise have a disk-like contour and geometry.

Through openings 81, 82, 83 which in each case come to lie in an aligned manner with respect to one another and act as screw holes can be configured on the carrier plate 14, the intermediate piece 20 and on the holder 30. Via those through openings 81, 82, 83, the components of carrier disk 14, intermediate piece 20 and holder 30 can be connected fixedly to one another. The outer radius or the radial external dimensions of the holder 30 are at least slightly greater than those of the intermediate piece 20. In particular, the carrier guides 37 which protrude radially toward the outside on the holder 30 or the extensions 38 can project from the radial outer edge of the intermediate piece 20, as is shown, for example, in the enlarged illustration of FIG. 6.

To this extent, an axial gap 85 is formed between the lower side 15 of the carrier disk 14 and an upper side of the holder 30, which upper side faces the carrier disk 14. During the introduction or plugging on of the segments 40, the cover section 59 which protrudes onto the upper side 49 of the segment bodies 42 passes into that gap 85. In this way, the relevant segment 40 or the segment body 42 can be clamped in or secured axially with its cover section 59 in the intermediate space or in the gap 85 between the carrier disk 14 and the holder 30. An axial securing means of this type is achieved immediately when the radially inner final mounting configuration of the segment bodies 42 on the carrier 12 is reached. Finally, the segment 40 or its segment body 42 only has to be secured or fixed on the carrier 12 in the radial direction r.

For this purpose, in accordance with the embodiment which is shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, in each case at least one upwardly projecting securing element 70 can be provided on the upper side 49 of the segment bodies 42. In the exemplary embodiment, which is shown, the securing element 70 is configured as a hook, the free bent-over end of which points radially outward. A counter-securing element 17 is situated on the upper side 16 of the carrier disk 14 spaced apart radially on the inside from the position of the securing element. The counter-securing element can be, for example, a toggle lever and/or clamping closure, for instance with a securing bracket 170, the toggle lever and/or clamping closure, or its securing bracket 170, interacting with the securing element 70, for instance with the hook of the segment 40.

A closure of the counter-securing element, for example of the clamping closure, results in a radially inwardly directed holding force being exerted on the segment body. At the same time, the segment body 42 is not only secured radially, but rather also axially on the carrier disk 14. It is advantageous here that the securing element 70 is arranged on the upper side 49 of the segment body 42 or is configured thereon, and that the securing element 70 is accessible from the upper side 49 of the segment body 42, and even from the upper side 16 of the carrier disk 14. This makes particularly simple, possibly tool-less mounting and dismantling of the segments 40 on and from the carrier 12 possible.

The lower side 15 of the carrier disk 14 can be configured to be substantially smooth and free from projections. The upper side 49 of the individual segments 40 can likewise be of smooth and planar configuration, with the exception of the securing element 70. Those surfaces of the carrier disk 14 and the segment 40 which pass into a contact position with one another during the mounting of the segments 40, therefore the upper side 49 which passes into contact with the lower side 15, make sliding and in this regard guided mounting of the segments 40 on the carrier 12 possible.

In order not to impede a radially inwardly directed introduction of the segments 40 into the final mounting position, the carrier disk 14 can have a plurality of cutouts 18 which come to lie in the region of the respective counter-securing element 70, in a manner which adjoins the outer edge of said carrier disk 14, into which cutouts 18 the upwardly protruding securing elements of the segment body 42 can be introduced radially to the inside. Instead of through openings or cutouts 18 which protrude toward the outside or into the outer edge, furthermore, conceivable through openings which are closed in the circumferential direction and spaced apart from the outer edge of the carrier disk 14 are possible, which through openings latch, for example, with securing elements 70 which project from the upper side 49 or pass into latching engagement therewith.

In this regard, the securing element 70 which projects from the upper side of the segment body 42 can also be configured as a latching or snap-action element which passes in a latching manner into engagement with an opening edge of a through opening of the carrier disk 14 as soon as the segment 40 has reached its final mounting position on the carrier 12.

The shape of the segment body 42, which shape is configured to be substantially planar and free from projections, makes particularly simple and efficient and inexpensive production possible. In particular, the segment body 42 can be configured as a plastic body or metal body which is milled, cut or punched from a blank. Single-piece segment bodies of this type also prove advantageous with regard to their environmental footprint, since they consist only of one material which can be recycled particularly satisfactorily.

Furthermore, as is shown, in particular, in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cover section 59 can be provided, in a manner which adjoins the inner edge 44, with a further encoding means 52 which is of corresponding or complementary configuration with respect to the counter-encoding means 22 on that outer edge of the intermediate piece 20 which lies radially on the outside. The encoding means 52 and counter-encoding means 22 can be provided instead of or in addition to the coding means 57 and the counter-coding means 39. The coding means and complementary counter-encoding means can ensure that exclusively the segment bodies 42 which are provided for a certain carrier 12 can be mounted on the latter. In contrast, segment bodies 42 or segments 40 with a non-matching encoding means or counter-encoding means cannot be mounted on a carrier 12 which is not provided for this purpose.

The further exemplary embodiment of the segment according to FIG. 8 is configured to be completely free and without encoding means of this type. The inner edge 44 which lies radially on the inside is of largely planar configuration. The end wall 56 of the receptacle 48 is also likewise of substantially planar or rectilinear configuration.

The exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 9 represents, as it were, a kinematic reversal of the above-described carrier guide 37 and segment guide 47. In the case of this exemplary embodiment which is shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the holder 130 which is provided on the carrier 12 has a plurality of carrier guides 37 which extend in the radial direction but, in contrast to the embodiment which is shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, have receptacles 138 which are open radially to the outside and into which extensions 148, of corresponding configuration with respect thereto, of the respective segments 140 can be introduced in the radial direction, that is to say in a radially inwardly directed manner. The receptacles 138, provided on the carrier 12, of the carrier guides 137 in each case have side cheeks 153, 155 which lie opposite one another and a radially inner end wall 156.

As shown, in particular, in FIGS. 10 and 11, the segment body 142 has a segment guide 147 which extends radially inward away from the radial inner edge 144 of the segment body 142 and, in this respect, projects radially inward from the approximately rectilinear or arcuately curved inner edge 144. The extension 148 can be introduced radially with an accurate fit into the receptacle 138 which corresponds with it. The extension 148 has side cheeks 133, 135 which lie opposite one another, and an end side 136 which is provided at the free end of the extension 148. As shown, in particular, in FIG. 9, the end sides 136 of the segment bodies 142 come into contact radially with the end walls 156, of complementary configuration with respect thereto, of the receptacles 138.

It is shown in the present case that the receptacles 138, and therefore the carrier guides 137, are arranged on the holder 130. They might also likewise be configured on the intermediate piece 120 which is covered axially by an approximately disk-shaped holder 30 (not shown). A plate which lies axially on the planar and aligned arrangement of segments 40 and holder 30 in the illustration according to FIG. 9 can close the receptacles 138 in the axial direction. On the side which faces away from the observer, and therefore on the upper side 149 of the segments 140, the carrier disk 14 (not shown separately in FIG. 9) lies anyway. As shown, furthermore, in FIGS. 10 and 11, the lower side 141 of the segments 40 are provided with a plurality of fastening points 50 for bristles or bristle tufts. The radially outer region of the segment 140 is delimited by side edges 143, 145 which lie opposite one another and extend approximately in the radial direction in relation to the rotational axis 1. The outer edge 146 is provided in a manner which lies radially on the outside and connects the outer edges 143, 145 to one another.

FIGS. 12 and 13 show a further exemplary embodiment of a segment 240, which further exemplary embodiment has a segment body 242 and is of similar configuration to the segment 40 according to FIGS. 2 and 3. In this respect, reference can be made substantially to the description of the segment 40, corresponding designations of the segments which are shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 being increased by the numerator 200 in comparison with the segment 40 which is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

The segment body 242 has an outer edge 246 which lies radially on the outside, an inner edge 244 which lies radially on the inside, and two side edges 243, 245 which lie opposite one another. The segment guide 247 which lies radially on the inside and adjoins the inner edge 244 is configured as a receptacle 248 for an extension, of complementary configuration with respect thereto, of the carrier 12. The receptacle 248 is delimited laterally (that is to say, in the circumferential direction) by side cheeks 253, 255. The receptacle 248 is delimited in the radial direction by an end wall 256. In contrast to the segment 40, the segment 240 has a receptacle 48 which extends continuously from the upper side 249 to the lower side 241 (not shown). In other words, the side cheeks 253, 255 and the end wall 256 directly adjoin both the upper side 249 and the merely indicated lower side 241.

The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 13 differs from that of FIG. 12 in that a mechanical encoding means 257 is configured in the region of the end wall 256, which mechanical encoding means 257 is configured, for example, in the manner of a toothing system. The segment 240 can be produced even more simply in terms of production technology than the segment 40. It can be configured, in particular, as a punched part. For axial and/or radial fixing of the segment 240 on the carrier 12, the segment 240 has a securing element 270 which is integrated into the upper side 249 in a flush-mounted manner. The securing element 270 can be, for example, a screw hole, a threaded bore or openings of the like in the upper side 249 of the segment body 242. The securing element 270 can interact, for example, with a fastening screw which can be guided through a corresponding screw hole of the carrier disk 14.

If the segment 240 is provided as a metal body, the securing element 270 can be configured directly as a threaded bore. In the case of embodiments of the segment body 242 in the form of a plastic body, a metal sleeve with an internal thread, for example a drive-in nut, can be embedded into the segment body 242 or can be arranged fixedly thereon, for example. The integration or the non-releasable arrangement of a securing element on the segment body 242 proves advantageous with regards to mounting.

The further embodiment of a segment 340 according to FIGS. 14 to 16 is relatively similar to that of FIGS. 1 to 7. The holder 30 which is arranged on the lower side 15 of the carrier disk 14 has a plurality of radially outwardly projecting carrier guides 37 which in each case have a radially outwardly protruding extension 38. The segment 240 has a segment body 342 with side edges 343, 345 which lie opposite one another, and with an inner edge 344 which lies radially on the inside and an outer edge 346 which lies radially on the outside.

Here, the segment guide 347 which adjoins the inner wall 344 also has a receptacle 348 which extends in the radial direction and is delimited in the circumferential direction by side cheeks 353, 355 which lie opposite one another. In the axial direction, however, the receptacle 348 is of closed configuration on both sides. The segment body 342 has a lower cover section 351 and an opposite upper cover section 359. The clear spacing between the side cheeks 353, 355 which lie opposite one another corresponds substantially to the width of the extensions 36 as viewed in the circumferential direction u. The clear spacing between the cover sections 351, 359 corresponds substantially to the axial thickness or height of the extensions 38. As is shown, in particular, in the exploded illustrations according to FIGS. 14 and 15, the segment bodies 342 which are provided with the receptacle 348 which is configured, for example, as a blind hole or as a groove are plugged in the radial direction onto the extensions 38 of the holder 330 which are spaced apart from the lower side 15 of the carrier disk 14 at least by the thickness of the cover section 359. Radial securing of the individual segments 340 can take place in the way which is shown above in respect of the other embodiments.

FIGS. 17 to 20 show a further exemplary embodiment of the segment 440 which, apart from a securing element 470 which is provided on its upper side 449 there, is of largely identical configuration to the segments which are shown in FIGS. 1 to 8.

The segment 440 has a segment body 442 with side edges 443 and 445 which lie opposite one another. On a radially inwardly pointing inner edge 444 of the segment body 442, a mechanical encoding means 452 is provided in a comparable manner to the mechanical encoding means 52 of the segment 40 which is shown, for example, in FIGS. 2 and 3.

A securing element 470 is arranged or configured on the upper side 449 of the segment 440 or the segment body 442. In the illustration, which is shown, the securing element 470 protrudes upward, that is to say in the axial direction from the upper side 449 of the segment body 442. In a mounting position on the carrier 16, furthermore, it penetrates its cutout 18 and, in this regard, comes to lie on the upper side of the carrier 16, or it protrudes from the upper side of the carrier 16 upward or in the axial direction.

The securing element 470 has a fastening section 471 which lies approximately flatly on the upper side 449 or is integrally formed thereon, and a securing section 472 which projects approximately at a right angle therefrom and extends away from the plane of the upper side 449. The securing section 472 has a cutout 474 which is open toward the top or in the axial direction. The inner edge of the cutout 478 can have a chamfer 476. The inner edge 478 can form an opening boundary of the cutout 474, which opening boundary has an extent of more than 180° in the circumferential direction.

The cutout 474 is configured to pass into engagement with a counter-securing element 417 which is arranged pivotably on the carrier 12. The counter-securing element 417 has an elongate securing bracket 430. The securing bracket 430 can be manufactured from an elastic material, for example from a natural or synthetic rubber or elastomer material. The securing bracket 430 is mounted pivotably with regard to a pivot axle 423. The pivot axle 423 is held by two limbs 421, 420 which protrude from the upper side 16 of the carrier 12 upward or in the axial direction. The limbs 421, 422 and the axle 423 which penetrates the limbs form a pivot bearing 420 for the securing bracket 430.

The securing sleeve 430 has an elongate shank 432 with a counter-securing section 436 which is widened in comparison with the shank, and with a head 434 which is widened at the end which faces away from the axle 423. The head 434 which can be of C-shaped configuration acts as a handle, in order to transfer the counter-securing element 417 from a release position (shown, for example, in FIG. 18) into a securing position (shown in FIGS. 19 and 20).

The counter-securing section 436 is configured, in particular, to radially lie in a clamping manner on the radially outwardly pointing cheek or side of the securing element 470. A corresponding clamping action can be achieved, in particular, by way of an elastic and radial expansion or dilatation of the shank 432. The shank 432 has an outer circumference which is of corresponding configuration to the geometry of the cutout 474. It can be configured with a slightly greater diameter, with the result that the shank 432 can be fixed in the cutout 474 in a clamping and/or clipping manner.

That surface of the counter-securing section 436 which faces the axle 423 and protrudes to the outside from the shank 432 can be configured with an accurate fit or in a complementary manner with respect to the geometry of that inner edge 478 of the cutout 474 which is provided with a chamfer 476.

The counter-securing section 436 has an extent transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the shank 432, which extent is considerably greater than the internal geometry of the cutout 474. It is provided here, in particular, that, in the case of a segment body 442 which is situated in a final mounting position on the carrier 12, the securing bracket 430 can be transferred into the securing position (shown in FIG. 20) only then, by the shank 432 being stretched or expanded radially to the outside by a predefined amount, with the result that it can be brought radially into contact by way of its widened counter-securing section 436 with the securing section 472.

The elastic deformation and the associated radially inwardly directed elastic restoring force of the securing bracket 430 brings about secure and durable fixing of the segment 440 and the segment body 442 on the carrier 12, at least in relation to the radial direction. 

1-17. (canceled)
 18. A segment for arranging releasably on a carrier configured to be mounted rotatably with regard to an axis of rotation for forming a circular brush or for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk, comprising: a segment body having a lower side from which a plurality of bristles protrude or from which an abrasive grit and/or a fiber structure are/is arranged, the segment body having a segment guide which extends in a radial direction in relation to the axis of rotation of the carrier in a manner which is adjacent to an inner edge which is radially on an inside and in a manner which is spaced apart from a side edge lying on an outside in relation to a circumferential direction of the segment body, which segment guide is configured to interact with a corresponding carrier guide which is configured on the carrier or is arranged thereon for arranging the segment on the carrier.
 19. The segment as claimed in claim 18, the segment guide being situated at a predefined spacing from the side edge of the segment body which lies on the outside in the circumferential direction between a pair of side edges which lie opposite one another.
 20. The segment as claimed in claim 18, wherein one of the segment guide and the carrier guide has an extension which extends in the radial direction and can be inserted into a radially extending receptacle of corresponding configuration of the respective other one of the segment guide and the carrier guide.
 21. The segment as claimed in claim 20, the receptacle being delimited in the circumferential direction by a set of two side cheeks which lie opposite one another.
 22. The segment as claimed in claim 20, the receptacle being delimited in the radial direction by an end wall.
 23. The segment as claimed in claim 22, the end wall having a mechanical encoding which is of corresponding configuration with respect to a counter-encoding which is configured on the extension.
 24. The segment as claimed in claim 20, the receptacle having, as viewed in an axial direction, a cover section which protrudes as far as the inner edge on at least one of an upper side or the lower side of the segment body.
 25. The segment as claimed in claim 20, the receptacle extending continuously from an upper side to the lower side of the segment body.
 26. The segment as claimed in claim 23, wherein an inner wall which lies radially on the inside has a further mechanical encoding which is configured to interact with a further counter-encoding of corresponding configuration with respect to the further mechanical encoding of the carrier.
 27. The segment as claimed in claim 18, the segment body having a securing element which is configured to form a radial fixing of the segment on the carrier in a manner which corresponds to a counter-securing element which can be arranged on the carrier or is configured thereon, and is arranged on an upper side of the segment body or is accessible from the upper side of the segment body.
 28. The segment as claimed in claim 27, the securing element being recessed, embedded or integrated into the segment body.
 29. The segment as claimed in claim 18, the segment body being a plastic body or metal body which is milled or cut from a blank.
 30. A carrier for forming a circular brush or for forming a cleaning, grinding or polishing disk, comprising: a carrier disk which can be driven rotatably with regard to an axis of rotation on a sweeping or cleaning machine and on a lower side of the carrier which a plurality of carrier guides which extend in each case in a radial direction for in each case one segment is arranged or configured.
 31. The carrier as claimed in claim 30, the carrier guides in each case having a radially outwardly protruding projection which can be inserted into a receptacle corresponding to the respective carrier guide of the respective segment, which projection is arranged on the lower side of the carrier with the formation of a radially accessible axial gap.
 32. The carrier as claimed in claim 30, a plurality of counter-securing elements being arranged or configured on an upper side of the carrier, which counter-securing elements, for radially and/or axially fixing the respective segment, can be brought releasably into engagement with a securing element which is provided on the respective segment.
 33. The carrier as claimed in claim 32, the counter-securing element having a securing bracket which is mounted pivotably on the upper side of the carrier and can be brought releasably into engagement with the securing element of the respective segment.
 34. The carrier as claimed in claim 32, the counter-securing element being manufactured from an elastic material or comprising an elastic material and being capable of being brought into engagement with the securing element of the respective segment only or in a clamping manner by a mechanical pre-stress brought about by way of elastic deformation and/or with the formation of a press fit. 